The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia for CH-47F aircraft, related equipment and support. The estimated cost is $180 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on December 18, 2015.

The total estimated value of MDE is $105 million. The total overall estimated value is $180 million.

This proposed sale will enhance the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner which has been, and continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress within the Pacific region and globally.

The proposed sale of the CH-47F aircraft will improve Australia’s heavy lift capability. Australia will use the enhanced capability to strengthen its homeland defense and deter regional threats. The CH-47F aircraft will replace Australia’s retiring CH-47D aircraft. Australia will have no difficulty absorbing these aircraft into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor will be the Boeing Helicopter Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There are no known offset agreements at this time associated with this proposed sale.

Implementation of this sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. or contractor representatives to Australia.